As autumn rains begin in Finland and waterproof overalls are pulled out from closets, why do they stir up such strong feelings? Researchers at the University of Oulu, reveal that mud pants represent much more than just protection from dirt and wetness.

Recently, Wei Tao Huang Research Team published a groundbreaking study in the journal Research, introducing a multifunctional trimetallic gold–silver–chromium nanocomposite (Au–Ag–Cr NCs). These nanocomposites have been applied in various fields, including multimode and multianalyte sensing, advanced arithmetic and reversible logic operations, and large-scale information security protection. This study not only updates the preparation paradigm of multimetallic nanomaterials but also paves the way for new applications in molecular information technology.

Fusarium wilt, one of the most devastating diseases of bananas, continues to threaten global production. Researchers have now uncovered how the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) deploys a virulent microRNA-like RNA, Foc-milR87, to suppress the banana immune system. This small RNA infiltrates plant cells and targets MaPTI6L, a gene encoding an AP2 transcription factor that activates defense signaling. By blocking MaPTI6L expression, Foc-milR87 weakens salicylic acid (SA) -related immunity and promotes infection. Importantly, natural single-nucleotide variations in the 3′UTR of MaPTI6L in resistant banana varieties prevent Foc-milR87 binding, suggesting a promising strategy for breeding Fusarium-resistant cultivars through genome editing.

A new study has revealed how pear trees use a hidden layer of RNA communication to defend themselves against fungal infection. Scientists discovered that a long non-coding RNA named MSTRG.32189 forms a regulatory network with PcmiR399b and PcUBC24 to control phosphate levels and disease resistance. Acting like a molecular decoy, MSTRG.32189 fine-tunes the plant’s internal balance between nutrition and immunity. When its expression decreases during infection, the pear’s defense system activates, boosting resistance through increased phosphate accumulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling. This finding offers a new window into how plants coordinate nutrient metabolism with immune protection.

A new study has assembled the first high-quality chromosome-level genome of Acer pentaphyllum, one of the world’s most endangered and ornamental maples. The findings reveal how the species’ genome adapted to the harsh dry-hot valleys of western China through expansions and positive selection of genes related to photosynthesis, plant hormone signaling, and pathogen defense. Population genomic analyses across 28 wild populations uncovered low genetic diversity, high inbreeding, and accumulation of harmful mutations, especially at range edges. These results provide essential genetic insights for guiding conservation planning and genetic rescue of this critically endangered species.

A new study led by Nigerian researchers suggests a simple ingredient could make diesel engines cleaner: water. By blending precise amounts of water with diesel fuel, scientists have shown that emissions of several harmful pollutants can be dramatically reduced without major engine modifications.

Researchers at Okayama University of Science (OUS) have developed a new histological staining technique that allows direct visualization of ancient proteins within fossil tissues, preserving their microstructural context. This innovative approach enables scientists to verify the authenticity of endogenous proteins—those that originated from the ancient organism itself—before performing complex molecular analyses, reducing contamination risks that have long challenged paleoproteomic studies. Tested on Pleistocene elephant fossils from Japan, the method successfully detected Type I collagen using Van Gieson’s staining, with findings confirmed by mass spectrometry. The study also revealed that bone preserves proteins better than dentine, offering valuable guidance for future fossil analysis. This simple yet powerful technique could revolutionize how researchers screen fossils for preserved proteins, paving the way for future investigations into even older specimens, including dinosaurs.

A new study led by researchers at Tianjin University reveals that particles from shipping exhausts are contributing more to global warming than previously thought. The study identifies “brown carbon,” a light‑absorbing component of ship emissions, as a hidden driver of heat retention in the atmosphere.